xv squadron association · tornado gr1 and gr4. in 1999 he was posted to xv(reserve) squadron as an...
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Chairman:Gp Capt Ivor Evans RAF
(Retd) Westhill
Church Road Elmswell Suffolk
IP30 [email protected]
XVXVTreasurer:
Mrs Valerie Ford-Jones48 Caraway DriveWood Hall Park
SwindonWiltshireSN2 2RF
Secretary:Flt Lt Sarah Shekhdar
XV(R) SqnRAF Lossiemouth
MorayIV31 6SD
(01343) [email protected]
2012 ANNUAL NEWSLETTER2012 ANNUAL NEWSLETTERCHAIRMANCHAIRMAN’’S MESSAGES MESSAGE
As Squadron Association members, we will all be aware of the risks faced by servicemen past and present both in action and in training. It was extremely sad then to learn of the accident earlier this year which claimed the lives of three XV Sqn aircrew. It is always a blow to lose comrades and colleagues and I am sure that you would all join me in pausing to think of their families and friends at this special time of the year. A fuller tribute from the Squadron is made to these individuals later in this newsletter.On a happier note, the Annual Reunion Dinner at RAF Henlow this year was a great success due, in no small part, to the very hard work of our former Secretary Flt Lt Stan Boardman. The Station Commander of Henlow and his mess Staff were extremely welcoming and the standard of the meal and service, in the excellent setting of a traditional RAF Mess, were of the highest quality. Your Committee is constantly striving to ensure that the Reunion provides good value for
money at a suitable venue. We have, once again, researched many options for next year’s event but, as the Royal Air Force continues to shrink, it has become impossible to find a service venue which can provide the standard we need and also guarantee sufficient accommodation which we can book in advance. We have therefore decided to return to RAF Henlow next year using similar hotel accommodation as we used this year. Our new Secretary has more details later in the newsletter I am also very pleased to inform you that we have a new Vice Chairman on the Association Committee to fill the vacant position. Gp Capt Graham Bowermanwas ‘persuaded’ by the President to join the Committee and we welcome him warmly. Graham was commissioned into the RAF in 1971 and completed 2 tours on XV Sqn during his career. He joined for his first tour flying Buccaneers at RAF Laarbruch from 1974 – 1977 and finished his flying career as OC XV(R) Sqn at RAF Lossiemouth from 1994 -1997. We welcome him as Vice Chairman.
SQUADRONSQUADRONASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION
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President: Air Marshal Sir Michael Simmons KCB AFC RAF(Retd)
As I mentioned earlier, we have had a change of Secretary in the last few months. Flt Lt Stan Boardman has left XV(R) Sqn to continue his aviation career at Boscombe Down and I would like to thank him on your behalf for his very hard work during his time on the Committee. He is replaced by Flt Lt Sarah Shekhdar, also a current member of XV Sqn, who has hit the ground running and already made a great start on the Association business. I would also like to thank OC XV Sqn for allowing one of his hard working staff to act as our Secretary. There is no doubt that we get immense value from having a current serving member in such an important role.Finally, on behalf of the President and the Committee, I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year and look forward to seeing as many of you as possible again next Summer.
Ivor Evans
OC XV(R) SqnOC XV(R) SqnWing Commander J Moreton MAWing Commander J Moreton MA
BEng(HonsBEng(Hons) RAF ) RAF -- BiographyBiography
Emanating from just north of Bristol, Wing Commander Jonny Moreton graduated from the Castle School Thornbury in 1986. Selected for an engineering scholarship he worked for both BAe and Rolls Royce prior to reading Aeronautical Engineering at Manchester University. He graduated in 1990 by which time he now had a bursary with the Royal Air Force. Life at Manchester University focused on his degree, sports and the local University Air Squadron (MASUAS). Jonny Moreton graduated from Royal Air Force College Cranwell in 1991; shortly after which he began his protracted flying training –
a member of the ‘holding generation’ on completion of Advanced Flying Training and the Tornado Operational Conversion Unit he had held a total of 3 years at various stages during his flying training. In 1996 he married Melanie, a Medical Practice Manager, and was posted to his first operational tour, IX(Bomber) Squadron at RAF Bruggen in Germany.Jonny spent the next 10 years flying the Tornado GR1 and GR4. In 1999 he was posted to XV(Reserve) Squadron as an instructor. During this tour he completed the Electronic Warfare Instructors Course and the Qualified Weapons Instructors (QWI) Course. He stayed on XV(R) as the TGR4 force QWI before assuming the responsibility of running the course. During this period he became a father for the first time to Josephine (1999) and subsequently to Kristian (2006).Jonny led operations over Iraq in 2005 and 2006 as a flight commander on 12(B) Squadron before his next posting to Abbey Wood from which he accepted the opportunity to become the Personal Staff Officer to the Deputy Commander in Chief Strike Command re-rolling to Headquarters Air Command.In 2008 he was promoted to Wing Commander and was posted to the Permanent Joint Headquarters at Northwood; where as the only Wing Commander on the Afghanistan Operation Team was directly responsible for all Rotary and Fixed Wing assets operating in support of the Afghan and Iraqi missions.Wing Commander Moreton took Command of No 14 Squadron in February 2011 and following its disbandment in April 2011, he was lucky enough to be given command in September 2011 of XV(R) Sqn.
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It occurred to me whilst drafting this, my final Sqn Cdr’s submission to the XV(R) Association Newsletter, that we seem to
be obsessed with the weather and shovels in the ‘northern wastes’ of
Scotland, notably with the effects of snow and ice on our output. Thus far,
despite a few cold snaps, we have been spared the worst of the Arctic weather that has hit the rest of the UK and the
snow shovels remain in store but ready for action!
For a number of reasons 2012 has been a most challenging year, yet we have continued to deliver significant numbers of ab-initio and post graduate pilots and WSOs to the frontline, whilst supporting Operations in Afghanistan with numerous staff aircrew and groundcrewdeployed in support of other operational squadrons. The effect of the 2010 SDSR and subsequent redundancies, notably in the engineering trades, has resulted in further changes in how we do business. A leaner OCU, fully fit for the future, will evolve as an integral part of the Tornado GR4 Force as we drawdown with a resultant decrease in student throughput. We have recently undergone a major re-write of the training syllabi to harmonize the revised requirements of squadrons and the major shift from ‘dumb’ bombs to enhanced weaponry and sensors.
This will provide the Force with genuinely more capable and focused crews leaving the OCU; crews who are capable of deploying immediately to Afghanistan as well as launching Storm Shadow missiles. A number of staff and mainly QWI students deployed to Akrotiri in late June for an Air Combat Training detachment. Whilst the detachment was highly successful, and provided a welcome break from routine home based operations, the tone of the detachment was marred by an unfortunate event back at Lossiemouth. As most of you will be aware, on 3 July 2012 a tragic accident occurred over the Moray Firth resulting in the loss of 2 of the Squadron’s aircraft and 3 lives. Those killed were, Squadron Leader Samuel Bailey, Flight Lieutenants HywelPoole and Adam Sanders, the fourth crew member is thankfully well, back to work and on the road to recovery. The loss of these officers has had an understandable and considerable impact on Sqn morale. This was a most challenging time for the Sqn, but we have all been most grateful for the numerous messages of support and condolence; they have been greatly appreciated and provided solace to the Sqn and the families of our lost friends. HRH Prince Andrew attended a Memorial Service on 9th July, accompanied by Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, for both civilian and service personnel on the Sqn and across RAF Lossiemouth. Subsequently, we hosted a number of high profile visits to the Sqn including The Secretary of State for Scotland, RtHon. Michael Moore MP.
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XV(R) SqnXV(R) SqnSqn CdrSqn Cdr’’s Report 2012s Report 2012
The annual GR4 Qualified Weapons Instructors Course has recently graduated successfully, now supported by a substantial pre-employment training package that has provided significant benefits to both the students and Force. The Tornado GR4 Role Demo Team was once again supplied by XV(R) Sqn, gaining Public Display Authority after an extensive work-up in May. XV(R) Sqn completed 38 displays at 20 locations across the UK and France throughout the 12-weekend display season.!
Quality of life remains vital; we held a successful Sqn Friends and Families Day in May, survived the annual Ops v Eng golf challenge and dinner and XV(R) were triumphant in an inter-section 1 mile Tornado pull for charity
It seems only a short while ago that I wrote my report for 2011, yet I amcognisant that I am fast approaching the end of my tenure as Officer Commanding XV(R) Sqn; it has been both a privilege and a challenge yet there remains much to do in the time left to me in an ever changing Air Force. I expect to be handing over to Wg Cdr Jon (Lenny) Nixon on 9 Apr 13. Again, like me, he has significant ‘previous’ on the OCU and will undoubtedly have much to offer the Sqn. The Sqn is looking forward to a well-deserved and slightly extended Christmas break; personally and on behalf of all current members of XV(R) Sqn, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Jon Moreton
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The Dedication and Unveiling of the The Dedication and Unveiling of the Bomber Command MemorialBomber Command Memorial
On Thursday 28th June 2012, Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness, The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh attended the Dedication and Unveiling of the Bomber Command Memorial in Green Park opposite the RAF Club in Piccadilly. Other members of The Royal Family attended in RAF uniform including The Prince of Wales, The Duke of York, The Earl of Wessex, The Duke of Gloucester and The Duke of Kent. Air Commodore Malcolm White, Chairman of the Bomber Command Association, made an opening address stating that the average age of the airmen who served in Bomber Command was only 22, many of whom never returned home. Her Majesty then unveiled the Memorial Statues, which were sculpted by Philip Jackson and represent the seven-man crew of a heavy bomber returning from an operation; their facial expressions capture a moment in time, a mixture of relief for their safe return and concern for those who did not. There followed a dedication service during which the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton, gave a moving address in which he said the 'service and raw courage' of those who died had at last been recognised.
The XV Sqn Standard was on parade together with the RAF Colour and nine others from serving squadrons that flew with Bomber Command.The Memorial is dedicated to the 55,573 airmen of RAF Bomber Command who died in World War II; its unveiling marks the end of a long battle by survivors and other supporters to achieve national recognition for the bomber crews’ role in winning the Second World War. More than 1,000 veterans who survived the conflict attended the event, along with relatives of the fallen, serving members of the RAF, and political leaders - some 5,000 in all. It was a sunny and warm day but fortunately a large number of University Air Squadron cadets were on hand to help the older veterans and hand out water to those attending this very special event. As the service came to a close, five of today’s bombers - Tornado GR4s - flew past in tribute, but all present were waiting for the BBMF Lancaster "City of Lincoln", which is currently in the guise of "The Phantom of The Ruhr". That aircraft (EE139) completed 30 operations as HW-R with 'C' Flight of 100 Squadron at RAF Grimsby, Lincolnshire (akaWaltham not to be confused with White Waltham in Berkshire) and, when the Flight broke away to form the new 550 Squadron at RAF North Killingholme,
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was re-assigned as BQ-B and flew another 91 operations to become a centurion. "The Phantom" had arrived on 100 Squadron in 1943 in the hands of Sergeant Ron Clark (later Flight Lieutenant Clark DFC), who at the ripe old age of 92 was invited to fly with the BBMF on the 28th June and release the poppy petals over the Memorial site. Fund raising for the Memorial was headed by The Bomber Command Association and, apart from the survivors and serving RAF personnel, was supported by many famous personalities including the singer Robin Gibb, who unfortunately died only a month before its unveiling. The RAF Benevolent Fund has taken on the responsibility for care and maintenance of the Portland stone structure and its aluminium roof,
the metal for which was donated by Canada and is inspired by the structure of the Vickers Wellington aircraft; it incorporates sections of aluminium recovered from a Handley Page Halifax III bomber shot down over Belgium on May 12 1944, killing eight crew. Three members of the crew, John Summerhayes, Fred Roach and Wilbur Bentz, were still at their stations when the aircraft was excavated from a swamp in Schendelbeke in 1997. The architect of the Memorial and the landscaping nearby is Liam O’Connor.
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AFTER SUEZ (1956)AFTER SUEZ (1956)XV Squadron flying the English XV Squadron flying the English
Electric Canberra B Mk 2 AircraftElectric Canberra B Mk 2 Aircraft
We arrived back at Honington in Suffolk, after 16 hours flying (in the nose of a Shackleton Mk 3 aircraft from Cyprus, with a short stop at Malta for Fuel,) at the end of October. The next day we were told that on Monday the 17th of December we would be travelling to Malta to spend Christmas and the new year. On Monday the 17th of December 1956 about 10.00 hours, we heard the sounds of the four Merlin engines of the Hastings Aircraft, which was going to take the Squadron to Malta. The Squadron had packed kitbags and tool boxes all at the ready. After early lunch, we entered the aircraft with our bags and boxes, settling down on the floor of the aircraft, whilst the aircrew carried out their checks, and the inside staff made sure every one was seated with their backs against the aircraft, and secure. Checks completed, the engines started one at a time and the noise is deafening, as we taxi to the end of the runway, the pilot checks with the inside staff that everything is ok, and, pushing the throttles forward, brakes off, we start our journey to Malta. Once in the air the noise is not as bad as at take off, it is a little quieter. Now over 50 years on (2009) I have just received my fathers R.A.F. records when he was in the R.A.F. during the Second World War. He served on 150 Squadron as a Bomber/Observer Flying Wellington’s Mk 3. The day he and the squadron were to leave England and fly to Tobruk, was the same day that we left Honington to fly to Malta, what a coincidence?
As we had taken off at Honington, the ground crews we were going to replace were also setting off from Malta. Arriving late afternoon ready for tea, we were shown to our rooms for the duration of our time in Malta. Told to have an early night for a tomorrow will be a long day. And what a long day. Sgt Kim (Catseye) Peacock with his famous time and motion board in hand, detailed crews to the 16 Canberra Aircraft who had to be uncovered, covers to be put into the rear of the aircraft, above the bomb bay by number three fuel tank, serviced and ready for take off to R.A.F. Wittering from whence they came. All before lunch. After lunch, a quick tidy up before the 16 Canberra Aircraft from Honington were due to land. All to refuel, service and cover up before we were allowed to go for tea and for the rest of the night free. Wow. Later on in the evening Sgt Peacock and Sgt Hilley arrived at the rooms where we were staying and presented me with a crate of Bottled beer, I had forgotten that It was the 18th December, my 21st Birthday, and what a day, I can honestly say that I have never worked so hard in all my life as I did on my 21st birthday.For the rest of our stay in Malta, aircrew flew sorties over Egypt as well as taking back a few bombs that were now not needed, as the crisis in Suez was over!
Tony BrittonCanberra Rep.
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Ron Ron ““RockieRockie”” KnightKnight’’s 90ths 90th
On Saturday, 10th November 2012, Ron “Rockie” Knight thought he was going out to lunch, at a local restaurant with members of his family, in order to celebrate his 90th birthday. However, on the way to the restaurant, the vehicle he was travelling in pulled up in the car park at the Murray Hall Community Centre, Loughton, where he was told another member of the family was to receive an award. On entering the venue, the World War Two veteran found himself face to face with over sixty people comprising of other members of his family, his grandchildren, great grandchildren, neighbours and friends who instantaneously burst into a chorus of “Happy Birthday to You”. Matthew Knight, knowing his father had been a wireless operator/air gunner, who flew on Lancaster bombers with No. XV Sqn during 1944, and that he still is a member of the XV Squadron Association and the MildenhallRegister, contacted the squadron to see if it was possible for someone to attend. Given that Valerie and I have known “Rockie” for over twenty-five years, and were able to get to the venue easily, it was agreed that we would represent the Squadron.Having received ample notice about the forthcoming party, Flt Lt Sarah Shekhdar, Secretary of the XV Association, arranged for a Tornado aircraft print to be signed by the officers and members of aircrew of the current day Squadron. The print was then forwarded to me for presentation to Ron. The presentation was made, following a lavish, cold-buffet lunch, fit to feed a King, let alone a Knight. The gift was received by Ron with much surprise and gratitude.
The assembled group of family and friends, who had gathered around Ron for the presentation, were equally taken aback. As a personal gesture from Valerie and me, I presented Ron with a dossier containing copies of all the bombing operations he undertook during 1944, details of the aircraft he flew on and copy images of RAF Mildenhall and contemporary aircrew based there at the same time as Ron. Both items received much perusal and interest, not only from Ron but also by those in attendance. Needless to say, the clicking of camera shutters could be heard for many minutes after the presentation. The calm that followed the clicking of camera shutters was however short-lived, as a 90th birthday cake was carried into the hall. In keeping with the theme of “Rockie’s”wartime service, the cake was surmounted by a Lancaster bomber made of icing sugar, supported on icing sugar clouds, with the top of the cake coloured to look like the ground below. It seemed a shame to cut it. Needless to say, Ron, Valerie and I managed to reminisce about some of the ‘old days’, including visits to RAF Laarbruch, reunions at RAF Mildenhalland the Squadron’s 85th anniversary celebrations at RAF Lossiemouth.
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It was, without doubt, a great afternoon, one filled with emotion, enjoyment and much chatter. ‘Happy Birthday, “Rockie”’.
In conclusion, I must acknowledge the fact that, knowing the Tornado print was being presented to a No. XV Sqn, WWII, Bomber Command veteran, Aces High Aviation Gallery at Wendover, Buckinghamshire, near RAF Halton, waived their fee for the cost of mounting and framing the print. This was a very generous gesture and one that is very much appreciated.
Martyn R. Ford-JonesXV Sqn Historian
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XV(R) SQN MEMORIAL EVENTSXV(R) SQN MEMORIAL EVENTS
XV(R) Sqn aircrew and engineers attended the Odense, Gellick and Vrauxmemorial events in May and June this year. The dates for next year are yet to be confirmed, but we expect to support these events around the same time.
Odense
Odense
Vraux
Vraux
We have lost touch with some members of the Association and would be very grateful for information, in particular contact
details, for any of the following people.
Sqn Ldr B A Armstrong BA RAF Tornado: Aug 86-May 89.Mr G A Barbour Tornado: Mar 87-Jul 91.Mr D R Bourne Victor: 4 Sep 61-23 May 62
& 1 Mar 64-9 Nov 64.Wg Cdr S J Boyle RAF Tornado: Jan 95-97/Wg Cdr Nigel Clifford RAF Tornado: May 87-Sep 90.Sqn Ldr C Cochrane RAF Tornado: Aug 93-Mar 96.Mr S E Cooper Vickers Virginia: 1930-32.Mr E C Cox Blenheim/Wellington:
7 Jun 40-17 May unknownWg Cdr Graeme Davis RAF Tornado: 4 Jul 94- Mar 97. Mr Steve Day Tornado:Jun 90-Jan 92 & 96/99.Flt Lt H J Evans RAF Tornado: Feb 95-Feb 96.Wg Cdr S Fisher RAF(Ret'd) Buccaneer: 74-78.Mr J W L French DFC Lancaster: Jun to Dec 1944.Major Jeff Gingras USAF Tornado: 1995-1997.Wg Cdr T N Harris RAF Tornado: May 94-Jan 98.Mr J F G Hay Lancaster: 1944-45.Mr G A Hume Tornado: Sep 1983-Sep 1986.Flt Lt J B L Jones Tornado: Oct 94-Feb 96.Flt Lt A Jones RAF Tornado: 1994-1996.Mr F W Lewis Blenheim MkIV: Feb-Nov 1940.Sqn Ldr J B MacDonald RAF(Ret'd) Tornado: 1988-91 & 1994-96.Mr David H Patterson Tornado: Aug 83-Apr 88.Wg Cdr J V Plumb RAF(Ret'd) Buccaneer: 1977-80.Mr E Roberts BEM Lancaster/Lincolns: 1945-1947.Sqn Ldr P Robinson Tornado: 95/97.Mr G Sanders Mr Mick A Scothern Tornado: 1987-1990.Mr Les Tuckfield Tornado: Oct 1987-Mar 1992.Mr P J Watts Canberra: Jan-Feb 1955; Mr H E Williams Washington:12 Feb 51-9 Oct 51.Mr A Winnard Tornado: 1986-1989.
LOST CONTACTSLOST CONTACTS
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We Remember them:We Remember them:
OBITUARY NOTICE
It is with great sadness that since the last issue of the newsletter in March 2012, we have learnt of the passing of the following members of the association and serving
XV(R) Sqn Officers.
Flight Lieutenant George F. WrightFlight Lieutenant George F. WrightWireless OperatorWireless Operator
No. XV & No.622 SquadronsNo. XV & No.622 Squadrons
George Wright was posted from No.1657 Conversion Unit to “C” Flight No. XV Sqn, based at RAF Mildenhall, Suffolk, on 30th June 1943. Whilst with No. XV, he undertook four operational sorties.On 10th August 1943, George and his crew were posted to No.622 Sqn, which was formed from “C” Flight, No. XV Sqn. Given that the new squadron was to operate from RAF Mildenhall, this meant that George and his crew only had to travel across to the far side of the airfield to join the new squadron. It also meant that as battle experienced crews, there would be no settling-in period. The new squadron was on ‘Ops’ that same night.Thirteen days after transferring to No.622, whilst undertaking an operation against Berlin, George’s aircraft was attacked by two enemy night-fighters. During the ensuing battle the pilot of the Stirling bomber, Sergeant Gil March, was severely wounded in the back by the detonation of a cannon shell against his seat. The aircraft fell several thousands of feet before it was brought under control by the bomb aimer, who flew the bomber home and landed it at RAF Mildenhall.
The bomb aimer, Sgt Jack Bailey was awarded a Conspicuous Gallantry Medal,whilst the navigator, Pilot Officer Richards, was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross. On 4th October 1943, George Wright was commissioned in the rank of Pilot Officer. At the end of the same month, George crewed-up with Flying Officer Ken Stoddart, with whom he was to fly a further 27 operational sorties. George Wright was classified ‘Tour Expired’ on 29th May 1944, having completed a total of 31 sorties. He was posted to No.12 Operational Training Unit, Edgehill and Chipping Warden, where he undertook wireless operator instructional duties. He was to remain in this posting until being demobbed, in the rank of Flight Lieutenant, during the latter half of 1945.In later years, George, along with his wife Joyce, and accompanied by Gil Marsh (his first pilot) and his wife Amy, attended many of the Mildenhall Register reunions and the XV Sqn Association events. Although too unwell to travel to London for the unveiling of the Bomber Command Memorial in London, on 28th June, George watched the event on television with Joyce by his side. Having suffered ill-health over the last few years, George passed away during the early hours of the morning on Monday, 10th September. Although George is no longer with us, he will not be forgotten. George’s wartime memories, along with those of Gil Marsh and the rest of the crew, have been recorded in a number of books including, ‘Bomber Squadron – Men Who Flew With XV”, “Oxford’s Own”, “ Stirling Wings”and “We Wage War By Night”
Martyn R. Ford-Jones11
Squadron Phil LamasonSquadron Phil Lamason Once at Buchenwald, he risked his life on numerous occasions as he sought to obtain the men’s release and to smuggle news of their plight to the Luftwaffe — RAF prisoners of war were the responsibility of the Luftwaffe, not of the Gestapo. By negotiating with the camp authorities he was able to secure extra blankets, clothes, clogs and food for the airmen. In October he learned that the Gestapo had ordered their execution, and he increased his efforts to secure the fliers’ release. On October 19, Luftwaffe officers arrived at Buchenwald and demanded the airmen’s release, and they were transferred to Stalag Luft III, where their shaven-headed, emaciated appearance shocked their fellow PoWs. One of Lamason’s colleagues described him as “a man of true grit, he was the wonderful unsung hero of Buchenwald”; most of the airmen who had been sent to that camp attributed their survival to his leadership and determination. Philip John Lamason was born in Napier, New Zealand, on September 15 1918 and educated locally. He worked as a livestock inspector before joining the RNZAF to train as a pilot. In April 1941 he sailed for England, where he joined No 218 Squadron flying the four-engine Stirling bomber. In April 1942 he took off on his 21st operation, an attack on Pilsen. On the return flight he was attacked by a night fighter, and his bomber was set on fire and the guns put out of action. Lamason coolly directed two of the crew to deal with the fire as he outmanoeuvred the fighter as it closed in for another attack. He then nursed the badly-damaged Stirling back to his base, where he made an emergency landing. He was awarded an immediate DFC.
Squadron Leader Phil Lamason, who has died in New Zealand aged 93, was the leader of a group of Allied airmen sent to Buchenwald concentration camp by the Gestapo. Lamason’s Lancaster was shot down while attacking railway yards near Paris two days after D-Day. Two of his crew were killed; Lamason bailed out with the other four, three of whom eventually made it back to England. For seven weeks Lamason and his navigator were hidden by the French Resistance before they were betrayed to the Gestapo, who interrogated them at the infamous Fresnes prison near Paris. Lamason was wearing civilian clothes when he was captured and was therefore treated as a spy rather than as a prisoner of war. On August 15 1944, five days before Paris was liberated, Lamason and his navigator were taken in cattle trucks with a group of 168 other airmen to Buchenwald, a journey that took five days. As the most senior officer, Lamason insisted on military discipline and bearing. He did not do this just to improve morale but also because he saw it as his responsibility to carry on his war duties despite the circumstances.
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Lamason spent six months training new bomber crews, during which time he was twice mentioned in despatches. He returned to operations in early 1944 as a flight commander with No 15 Squadron, flying the Lancaster. This was at the height of the Battle of Berlin, when Bomber Command’s losses were at their highest. Lamason made a number of visits to the “Big City”. Lamason was never afraid to speak his mind. On the night of March 30/31 1944, when 795 bombers were sent to attack Nuremberg, he was very critical of the route chosen, warning his station commander that heavy losses could be expected on the moonlit night. In the event, 95 bombers were lost, the worst losses on a single raid. He attacked some of the most heavily defended targets in Germany before Bomber Command switched its attention to France in preparation for the Normandy landings. Two weeks after Lamason had been shot down near Paris, he was awarded a Bar to his DFC. In Stalag Luft III he recovered slowly, and in January 1945 joined his fellow PoWs as they were force-marched westward ahead of the advancing Soviet Army in the worst winter weather experienced for many years. At the end of April, the men of the “Long March” were finally liberated. When the war ended Lamason returned to New Zealand, settling on his farm at Dannevirke, near Palmerston. His heroic role at Buchenwald was not recognised until 1994, when a Canadian film was made and Lamason was interviewed about his experiences. The publication of the book Night after Night –New Zealanders in Bomber Command led to the making, in 2011,
of The Lost Airmen of Buchenwald, an American documentary which features Lamason and several of his fellow PoWs. He married, in 1941, Joan Hopkins. She died in 2009, and he is survived by their two sons and two daughters. Squadron Leader Phil Lamason, born September 15 1918, died May 19 2012With acknowledgement to Air Cdre Graham Pitchfork
1387489 WARRANT OFFICER 1387489 WARRANT OFFICER WILLIAM A. DYSONWILLIAM A. DYSON
NavigatorNavigator
The death of ex-Warrant Officer William Dyson, a former navigator with No. XV Sqn, was announced during May 2012.William Dyson, who flew as navigator with P/O R. Watson and his crew, was posted to No. XV Sqn, based at RAF Bourn, Cambridgeshire, on 6th March 1943. He undertook his first operational sortie, a “Gardening” sortie (mine-laying), with his crew, five days later on 11th March. On the 14th April, No. XV Sqn was re-located to RAF Mildenhall, Suffolk. As the Stirling bomber on which William was flying touched-down at the new base, the aircraft’s tail wheel assembly sheared off. Fortunately, there were no injuries. Two weeks later, on 26th April, William Dyson and his crew were detailed for an attack against Duisberg, Germany.
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It was the crew’s 6th operational sortie. All went well until William’s aircraft was approximately thirty miles inside enemy occupied territory, when it was attacked by a Junkers Ju.88 night-fighter. Although the enemy aircraft, piloted by Feldwebel (Sergeant) Heinz Vinke, of 11./NJG1, approached the bomber from below, Flight Sergeant Bearnes, the rear gunner, had seen the aggressor and shouted a warning to his pilot. As P/O Watson made a banking turning, the Ju.88 opened fire, hitting the bomber in the bomb bay, resulting in some of the incendiaries igniting. With no hope of saving their aircraft the crew, including William Dyson, baled out. Having made a safe landing, William was captured by the Germans and made a prisoner of war. He was issued with the PoW number 1065 and incarcerated in Stalag Luft 6 (Heydekrug) and Stalag 357.Many years later, during the late 1980’s, a Dutch WWII aircraft archaeological group excavated the crash site of William’s aircraft. They recovered the aircraft’s engines and many smaller items. Some of the latter were presented to the XV Sqn Historian following a visit he made to the site. These items were often displayed at RAF related meetings and organised events, including the Bomber Command Annual Reunion Dinner. During 2011, having received a request for information relating to William Dyson, the squadron historian prepared a dossier containing all known relevant information relating to the former navigator’s service with No. XV Sqn. It was collected by William’s grand-daughter, F/L Hannah Brown. During the meeting the items recovered from the crash site were presented to Hannah, who took them home to show to William.
It was the first time he had seen any items relating to his aircraft in 66 years.By word of mouth, the story reached the ears of a BBC television producer, who showed great interest in interviewing William for a local programme to be aired on BBCTV South. Unfortunately, William was taken ill before an interview could take place, and he passed away on 8th May 2012, whilst in hospital in Poole, Dorset.
Martyn R. Ford-JonesPhotograph via Flight Lieutenant Hannah Brown
Flt Lt Adam SandersFlt Lt Adam SandersPilot XV(R) SqnPilot XV(R) Sqn
March 2012 March 2012 –– July 2012July 2012
Adam joined XV(R) Sqn at the beginning of March 2012 after completing a very successful ground school for the Tornado at Lossiemouth. Adam was a ‘Creamie’ -the pick of the bunch – an instructional tour on the HAWK had given him an excellent foundation for the future. He could have gone anywhere, but XV were the lucky ones - we got him on Tornado. At first Adam appeared to be a reserved character, after all he had the pressures of ‘being a creamie’ – with hundreds of hours on fast jet - failure was not an option.But Adam was no different to any other pilot that had gone before him. He would fall in love with an aircraft that had wings that moved, engines times 2 and an extra setting on the throttles that read ‘COMBAT’! However, Adam quickly found that 2 engines does not necessarily equal twice the performance - to quote his instructor on his first Tornado sortie –‘Adam try to check the climb angle at 5 degrees nose-up after take-off,
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the Tornado was not designed to be a rocket’. When he landed he had the traditional grin from ear to ear of someone who had gone one step further to achieving his goal – he had arrived at last. He was learning to fly and operate a frontline aircraft, something he had dreamt of for many years. Adam continued to do exceptionally well getting to grips with his new aircraft. An ultimate professional, he was a dedicated Royal Air Force officer and an above average pilot. At the time of the accident Adam was at the halfway point on XV –the weapons phase on the squadron. You could see that he was really enjoying his flying, it was clear that Adam was a gifted aviator who would have quickly established himself on his selected frontline squadron, 617 – you could see it in his eyes - he understood how to get the best out of operating the Tornado; his experience as a creamie was starting to shine through not only airborne, but also in and around the station. Despite his previous experience Adam had not a hint of arrogance about him. Not only was he humble, but he was a good honest guy who was enthusiastic about flying and eager to learn everything he could about his new aircraft.Adam may have only spent a short time at Lossiemouth and XV, but he had made a real impact – whether it was socially in the Officers’ Mess, down town with his fellow students or keeping the instructors on their toes – he had become part of the Tornado fraternity and we had welcomed him from Formby to the club. Our thoughts remain with John, Lynn and the rest of his family following this immensely difficult time. Adam will be missed by all who knew him and will not be forgotten.
OC XV(R) Sqn
Flt Lt Flt Lt ‘‘HH’’ PoolePoolePilot XV(R) SqnPilot XV(R) Sqn
January 2012 January 2012 –– July 2012July 2012
H arrived on XV(R) Sqn in January 2012 , having come straight through the training system and the Tornado ground school at Lossiemouth. He was no different to any other new pilot flying the Tornado for the first time. With new novelty items including 2 engines, reheat, and wings that require moving. After his first real fast jet sortie with gratuitous use of reheat, ‘H’ wore the customary grin from ear to ear. Like those that had gone before him, converting from the MG sports car-like Hawk to the mighty Tornado took some time. Not unusually for a new student he adopted the Farmer Giles approach to Tornado flying – a little agricultural. However, H was someone who was keen to impress and always responded well to instruction. H continued to overcome all the challenges of learning to operate a new aircraft – flying with a navigator to name but one – which is not always as easy as some may think. But this was H, his out going personality and his genuine enthusiasm made him universally liked and respected amongst the students and staff, he was someone who all the instructors took great pleasure in teaching.As H moved through the course it was obvious that his confidence was increasing and importantly he was now thinking about operating the aircraft rather than just flying it. He had just entered the penultimate phase of the course and was doing really well bringing all the individual skills he had been taught together. His reports were consistently high average,
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very rare for someone who had come directly through the training system.He was enjoying being part of a fast jet squadron as well as being an active part of a frontline airbase.H was somebody who had an engaging character who often put others before himself. He had an infectious personality, was always cheerful, friendly and immensely likeable. H and his cheeky smile, big hands and big heart will be greatly missed by all. Our thoughts remain with Mike, Denise, Beth and the rest of his family following this immensely difficult time – he will not be forgotten.
OC XV(R) Sqn
Squadron Leader Sam BaileySquadron Leader Sam BaileyNavigator XV(R) SqnNavigator XV(R) Sqn
October 2004 October 2004 –– July 2012July 2012
Sam was on XV for just under 8 years. A consummate professional, he touched the lives of many - not just those from within the Tornado Force. Most, if not all, those flying a Tornado today have come into contact with Sam at some point in their career.An outstanding instructor, Flight Lieutenant Bailey Instructor XV(R) Sqn progressed to Squadron Leader Bailey Flight Commander. On his return from Afghanistan and Staff school at Shrivenham, Sam assumed the Flight Commander responsible for operations and ran everything. At the heart of the Squadron Sam and his team planned, managed and directed all the day-to day activity and controlled everything that influenced the flying. He loved it – sharp, quick witted and incredibly hard working, Sam understood what the Squadron needed to do –
his 7 years previously on XV meant that he knew what was wrong , what needed to be fixed and what needed to be left well alone including some of the Boss’s more eccentric ideas.Sam was a real problem solver, able to see through problems and recognise what really mattered. He got so good at this that his talents were recognised across the Station and he quickly became the default answer to get involved with solving Administrative and Engineering problems – from Hotpits to Key Performance Indicators and the Station Communication Strategy, nothing was off limits. In this way Sam has truly left his mark, not afraid to break down barriers within the station.But for all the flying, the instructing, and the problem solving across the Station, Sam’s love was for the outdoors and in particular sharing the outdoors with Fiona and Erin. He looked forward to his weekends and leave. Early morning excursions to Cape Wrath, and occasionally closer to home at the duck pond on base, Sam would often be found early in the morning hiding in a bush with his fellow shooters waiting for some unsuspecting duck to land on the pond. Sam liked to consider himself at one with the environment.There were many sides to Sam – the professional, the mentor, the problem solver and the family man. Our thoughts remain with Fiona, Erin and all the family following this immensely difficult time. Sam leaves a real legacy on this station and on XV(R) Sqn – he will not be forgotten.OC XV(R) Sqn
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NOTES FROM THE SECRETARYNOTES FROM THE SECRETARY
Following the success of last year’s reunion the committee are looking forward to arranging a similar event for 2013. The Station Commander has confirmed that the Association may hold its annual reunion dinner on his station on the 7th of June 2013. Due to the lack of service accommodation we will be looking to stay off base. I would like to encourage everyone requiring accommodation to stay at the Day’s Inn Stevenage North, Extra Services, Junction 10 A1M, Radwell, SG7 5TR. The discounted cost is £42.95 for a double room plus £4.95 per person for breakfast if required. Please book directly with the hotel on 01462730598 with the reference ‘XV Squadron association dinner’ to obtain the discount. Further discounts may be available if you book online. Transport will be arranged between the Day’s Inn and RAF Henlow at approximately £7 per head for the return journey. There will be pre dinner drinks at 19:00 for a 19:30 meal. We also anticipate an interesting and informative afternoon talk on Afghanistan or Gulf War 1 at approximately 15:00. The price of the dinner will be approximately £50 per head. As arrangements are finalised I will endeavour to inform you as soon as possible either via email or via the XV Sqn website. The booking form will be included in the March newsletter and hopefully available for download from the internet site around the same time. In the mean time, I can however, take provisional bookings at any point either by email or post. I would like to thank the Association for their warm welcome to me as the new secretary and I will endeavour to fill the ‘big boots’ left by my predecessor Stan Boardman.
I would also like to thank all those that have contributed material for the newsletter, some of which will be appearing in the next addition.Contributions are always greatly received. If you have any memories you would like to share of times gone by or more recent events or visits I would be delighted to receive them. The XV Sqn Association has a healthy membership of around 300 which we are keen to sustain and build on. Lifetime membership is currently just £15 so please spread the word to encourage XV Sqn members past and present to join up. We also offer associate membership to close relatives of former members of XV Sqn. The membership forms can be downloaded from the website, alternatively if you don’t have internet access contact the Secretary and a form will be sent out. As ever we are looking to save costs, so if you have an email address I can send the newsletter to electronically please let me know.Finally, I would like to wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I look forward to meeting many of you at the next reunion. Until then, ‘Fly Safe and Aim Sure!’
Sarah ShekhdarSecretary
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CHAIRMAN:Gp Capt Ivor EvansWest Hill, Church Road, Elmswell, Suffolk. IP30 [email protected]
SECRETARY:Flt Lt Sarah ShekhdarXV(R) Sqn, RAF Lossiemouth, Moray. IV31 6SD01343 [email protected]
TREASURER:Mrs Valerie Ford-Jones48 Caraway Drive, Wood Hall Park, Swindon, Wilts. SN2 [email protected]
XV SQN ASSOSIATION CONTACTSXV SQN ASSOSIATION CONTACTS
ERA REPS:Pre-Canberra:Martyn Ford-Jones48 Caraway Drive, Wood Hall Park, Swindon, Wilts. SN2 [email protected]
Canberra:Tony Britton“Bro-Bri”, 7 Queen’s Avenue, Bradford, west Yorks. DB2 [email protected]
Victor:Peter Roberts14 Low Hatters Close, DownhamMarket, Norfolk. PE38 [email protected]
Buccaneer:Vic Blackwood25 Beaufort Road, Ingham, Bury St Edmands, Suffolk. IP31 [email protected]
Tornado:Flt Lt Sarah Shekhdar
18Newsletter designed and compiled by
Sgt Scott Webster XV(R) Sqn Ops
This memorial is sited in the garden of the Grove Residential home Elgin